Jena TrowbridgeL.I.F.E would like to thank donor Jean Bassett from Tucson, AZ for graciously sponsoring student Jena Trowbridge for a $1,000 Scholarship. The funds will help Jena complete her degree at the Remington College School of Nursing in Orlando, FL. Presently, Jena works as a Nutritionist and Lactation Consultant with the Florida Department of Health. According to Jena, “my chosen profession will enable me to fulfill my desire to help others, to expand my knowledge base, and to travel. Throughout my life I have participated in valuable volunteer experiences. I have striven for academic excellence, always wishing to make the most of my education.” According to Jean, “This has been very rewarding for me. You can plan on my sponsorship again next year. “
26-year old Jena Trowbridge was born and raised in the small town of Bath, Michigan. She was diagnosed with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in high school. After gaining acceptance to Western Michigan University, she began undergoing chemotherapy treatment. Despite undergoing treatment, she managed to maintain her status as a full time student while working part-time to cover living costs.
Although education plays a significant role in her life, Jena is active outside of the classroom. She was an athlete in high school, has volunteered for Big Brothers/Big Sisters for seven years, and currently volunteers at local high schools to educate expectant moms on nutrition, benefits of breastfeeding and car seat safety. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, kayaking, yoga, reading and playing basketball.
According to Jena, “I have faced many challenges, balancing work, school, and a chronic disease. My goal is to become a registered nurse so that I can perform tasks that clients cannot do for themselves. This new chapter of my life will continue to grow and develop who I am as a student, professional and individual; I gladly welcome all of these upcoming changes with ample enthusiasm for what the future may hold.”
Jena expressed her gratitude to Jean in a letter stating "I would like to express my gratitude for your financial support in the 2014-2015 L.I.F.E Scholarship. It is because of your generosity that I am able to focus on my studies and pursue higher education. Please know that your generous gift will be used with great enthusiasm, dedication and hard work. On behalf of all of the students working to overcome financial and health difficulties to achieve their dreams, I would like to thank you again for all that you are doing."
If you are interested in sponsoring a future L.I.F.E Scholarship winner, please email life4lupuscholarship@gmail.com.